Background of the issue
Elimination of Invasive Species Senna spectabilis: Senna spectabilis is a fast-growing, yellow-flowering tree belonging to the Fabaceae family.
It is classified as an invasive alien species due to its aggressive spread outside its native range.
The species is native to South and Central America but was introduced in India as an ornamental and shade tree.
Over time, it escaped cultivation and established itself in forest ecosystems.
Static GK fact: Invasive alien species are organisms introduced outside their natural habitat that threaten native biodiversity and ecosystems.
Spread in the Western Ghats
The Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot, has witnessed severe invasion by Senna spectabilis.
Major affected landscapes include the Nilgiris, Mudumalai Tiger Reserve, and Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve.
The species thrives in dry and moist deciduous forests, where climatic conditions favour rapid growth.
It produces abundant seeds that disperse easily, enabling swift colonisation.
Static GK Tip: The Western Ghats was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 due to its exceptional ecological value.
Ecological impacts
Senna spectabilis forms dense monocultures, preventing sunlight from reaching the forest floor.
This suppresses the growth of native plant species and disrupts natural forest regeneration.
The invasion leads to reduced biodiversity, as endemic grasses, shrubs, and medicinal plants decline.
It also limits the availability of fodder for herbivores, affecting wildlife food chains.
Another major concern is the increased fire risk, as dry leaf litter accumulates beneath Senna-dominated patches.
This alters fire regimes and weakens forest resilience.
Static GK fact: Biodiversity loss directly affects ecosystem services such as soil conservation, water regulation, and carbon sequestration.
Tamil Nadu’s eradication initiative
The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has launched one of India’s largest invasive species eradication drives.
The goal is to remove Senna spectabilis from every forest division by March 2026.
The programme involves systematic uprooting, controlled removal, and post-clearance monitoring.
Forest officials are prioritising wildlife corridors and high biodiversity zones.
Native species are being reintroduced to ensure ecological restoration after removal.
Long-term monitoring is planned to prevent re-invasion.
Static GK Tip: Eradication is most effective when combined with habitat restoration and continuous surveillance.
Broader environmental significance
The initiative reflects a shift from tree-centric conservation to ecosystem-based management.
It acknowledges that not all greenery contributes positively to forest health.
The campaign also aligns with India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity.
Effective control of invasive species is essential for climate resilience and wildlife conservation.
Successful elimination of Senna spectabilis can serve as a model for other states facing similar threats.
It highlights the role of state-led interventions in safeguarding fragile ecosystems.
Static GK fact: India is one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, hosting nearly 8% of global biodiversity.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Elimination of Invasive Species Senna spectabilis:
| Topic | Detail |
| Invasive species | Senna spectabilis |
| Native region | South and Central America |
| Affected ecosystem | Western Ghats deciduous forests |
| Key impacted areas | Nilgiris, Mudumalai, Sathyamangalam |
| Major ecological impact | Biodiversity loss and monoculture formation |
| Additional risks | Reduced fodder and higher fire vulnerability |
| Implementing authority | Tamil Nadu Forest Department |
| Eradication target | Complete removal by March 2026 |
| Restoration approach | Native species replantation and monitoring |
